NEWS: Vanstrattan returns as Jets expand coaching staff

Newcastle Jets are pleased to confirm that former Juventus custodian Jess Vanstrattan has been reappointed by the club as goalkeeping coach.

Vanstrattan linked with the Jets in February this year in player-coach capacity, however has now been appointed to solely train and develop the club’s shot-stoppers.

Vanstrattan formalised his contract with the Jets on Monday before hitting the park with Scott Miller’s men at the University of Newcastle.

Miller said that Vanstrattan was always a leading candidate to join his coaching team, but like other applicants for the position the former Gold Coast United goalkeeper had to demonstrate to the club his knowledge, skills, and desire to contribute to the ambitious Newcastle vision.

“We believe we have made the right choice in hiring Jess Vanstrattan,” Miller said. “We interviewed a number of candidates throughout a thorough recruitment process and Jess was, in our opinion, the standout.”

“With his mix of playing know-how and recent experience with the club, we believe Jess will prove to be a significant member of the coaching staff.”

Vanstrattan said that he felt an immediate and positive rapport with Miller and his Senior Assistant Coach, Jean-Paul de Marigny, in their initial discussions.

“The goalkeeper [coaching] role went through a process and I was pleased to be a part of that,” Vanstrattan explained. “I thought the interview process was good, and I felt comfortable with Scott and ‘JP’ [de Marigny].”

“It’s good to be back now and to get back into the work. We’ve got two good goalkeepers at the Jets, and we’re all excited about the new season.”

“Everything seems really positive right now – from the front office to the training ground everyone is happy, is working well together and creating a good environment.”

“Although I have only been back for one day, it’s great to see all the players bouncing around at training and seeing that a good level has been set.”